The basics of contact lens solutions
Contact lens solutions are critical to the comfort and success of wearing contact lenses. These solutions are used to clean, disinfect, and store contact lenses. There are two main types of solutions: multipurpose and saline. It’s important to understand the difference between these two to determine which solution is best for your lens-wearing needs.
Multipurpose solutions
Multipurpose solutions, as the name suggests, are all-in-one solutions that clean, disinfect, and store contact lenses. These solutions are convenient because you don’t need to buy separate products for each step of the cleaning process. They typically come in a single bottle and can be used for both soft and gas permeable lenses.
Brands such as Biotrue and Opti-Free offer popular multipurpose solutions.
Saline solutions
Saline solutions, on the other hand, are simply a saltwater solution used to rinse contact lenses. They do not contain any cleaning or disinfecting agents, so they are not recommended for daily use. Instead, they are mainly used for storing and rinsing lenses that have been cleaned with a different solution.
While saline solutions are less expensive than multipurpose solutions, it’s important to note that they do not offer the same level of cleaning and disinfection. If you choose to use saline solution regularly, you will also need to purchase a separate cleaning and disinfecting solution.
Choosing the right solution for you
When choosing between multipurpose and saline solutions, consider your specific lens-wearing needs. If you have sensitive eyes, you may want to opt for a multipurpose solution that offers a gentler cleaning solution. If you often travel or want to simplify your contact lens care routine, a multipurpose solution may be more convenient.
Ultimately, both solutions have their pros and cons, so it’s important to consult with your eye doctor to determine which solution is best for your specific situation.
The bottom line
While multipurpose and saline solutions may seem similar, they serve different purposes in contact lens care. Saline solutions are mainly used for rinsing and storing lenses while multipurpose solutions offer convenience by cleaning, disinfecting, and storing contact lenses all in one solution. Consider your individual needs and preferences to determine which solution is best for you.
